Stanley Jess Aldridge

Stanley Jess Alridge, age 58, passed away from this life on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.  He was born March 14,1966 to Jesse Jess Aldrige Jr. and Shirley Aldridge. Stan was a faithful husband, loving father, wonderful father-in-law, and loyal friend to many.  He was a man of exemplary character, as pastor Garrett said of him, "He quietly lived a loud life."

Stan was a native of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, raised in Nuyaka and later relocated to Arizona where he met his lovely wife, Sherrie, and became the caring father of Jesse and Janessa.  Stan worked as a Die Corrector in Aluminum extrusion plants, having an eye for precision and the patience to execute the work.  With an associate's degree in Drafting and Design, a lover for wood-working and a passion for agriculture and farming, he used his knowledge and expertise to provide and care for his family.  Throughout his career, Stan earned numerous certifications.  He was a Civil War buff with a passion for American History.  In his youth, he was a member of the Future Farmers of America, showing livestock and winning awards

Stan loved Elk and Deer hunting, earning the nick name "Salt-Lick" from Brother Nathaniel Kelley.  He was known as the fastest runner in the high school and given the title of "Nuyaka Flash" by Elder Gary Howard.  His all-time favorite food was Blackberry Dumplings.  He would eat all of his, all of yours, and then some.  All of God's creations loved Stan, especially his golden lab, Lucy, also known as "his shadow".  Above all of his interests and hobbies, he loved his wife the most and cherished the time he spent with his family.

Stan received the Holy Ghost at Faith Temple, now known as Valley Pentecostal Church, in October of 1988.  It was there he faithfully served as an usher, arriving early and staying late until his post was finished.  He taught Sunday School, winning the hearts of children, many calling him "Grandpa".  He was a father-figure to teenagers desiring a godly role-model.  He received the "Bible Quizzing Coach of the Year" award.  Bishop Garrett called him "Stan the Man," and with VPC quickly following his lead, "Stan the Man" seemed to fit, as he lived up to being a true man of consistency and dependability.

He was a man of great faithfulness.  Whenever a church workday weas called, he would always be among the first ones to arrive and the one of the last ones to leave.  Stan started working long hours and had a talent for falling asleep, at will, anywhere at any time, He kept those around him entertained with his wry wit and sense of humor.  It was said of him, "He lived outside the box, not inside the box," He was a gentle giant who placed the needs of others before his own.  We will cherish his legacy, always remembering the good and the faithful man whom we knew and loved dearly. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother.  Stan is survived by the love of his life, Sherrie Aldridge, his wife of 35 years.  He is also survived by his son and his daughter-in-law, Jesse and Hannah Aldridge, his daughter, Janessa Aldridge (aka Sassafras), his beloved cousin Darla, his shadow, Lucy, as well as a host of loving family and friends.